Suggestions for Developing Project Management Skills

A number of specific suggestions may be helpful in developing the skills needed for effective project management performance. Many of these suggestions are also aimed at those professionals who wish to prepare themselves for project management assignments. They are as follows:

• Observe the management practices of others.

• Develop sensitivity to what works and what does not in your own management style and environment.

• Understand available tools and techniques, especially in the administrative and technical area, via readings, courses, seminars, and workshops.

• Attend some project management-related seminars, workshops, and courses, as they provide insight into the drivers and barriers to effective management. Such education can provide “how-to” guidelines for effective leadership, team building, communication, and conflict resolutions.

• Form a managerial interest group that meets regularly, similar to a Quality Circle, discussing specific problems and challenges, as well as techniques, to deal with them.

• Attend professional meetings, conferences, and symposia, as they can be effective forums for sharing experiences and gaining new knowledge and insight.

• Consider job rotation, either as part of a formal training program or internship, or on an ad hoc basis. It can be helpful in building and fine-tuning managerial skills.

• Solicit counseling and coaching by upper management or an outside expert.

• Perform a formal analysis of the managerial skills required in your work environment. It can provide valuable insight and suggestions for development.

• Maintain technical fitness, as it is an important prerequisite for getting the opportunity for large managerial responsibility and skill development. Therefore, staying current regarding the technologies, products, markets, and customer applications seems vital to the manager’s credibility with upper management, peers, and subordinates, and ultimately for the opportunity for further career growth.

• Continue your education as a life-long learner in the job-related areas of technology, administration, and management. It is a prerequisite for managerial skill building and career development.